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Harlem’s Fashion Row and LVMH Unveil the Virgil Abloh Award

LVMH executives stand in front of a backdrop.
From left: Anish Melwani, chairman and CEO of LVMH North America; Gena Smith, chief human resources officer, LVMH North America; Brandice Daniel, CEO of Harlem's Fashion Row; and Corey Smith, head of diversity and inclusion, LVMH North America. (Harlem's Fashion Row)

In partnership with LVMH, the New York-based fashion organisation will host its 15th anniversary fashion show and awards on Sept. 6.

This year, in addition to its annual showcase of Black-owned brands, Harlem’s Fashion Row has created an award in honour of Virgil Abloh. His wife, Shannon Abloh, will present the accolade at the show.

According to the organisation, the award “celebrates like-minded individuals who embody Virgil’s spirit, brilliance, and vision, through invaluable contributions to culture, community, and innovation,” it said in an announcement Monday.

The recipients include actress Issa Rae, womenswear designer Sergio Hudson, fashion writer Robin Givhan, stylist Ade Samuel and Janet Jackson, who will be awarded the “Icon of the Year” award.

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The three designers showcasing their collections this year at the event include Clarence Ruth, creator of Cotte D’Armes; Johnathon Hayden; and Nicole Benefield.

Learn more:

At Fashion Week, Signs of Stalled Progress on Diversity

Some Black creatives say they’re worried the industry is already moving on from its recent focus on racial injustice, leaving them to carry the load.

Editor’s note: This article was amended 30 August, 2022. A previous version misspelled Johnathon Hayden’s name.

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